Diary method and research on breastfeeding with working mothers in Malaysia

Abstract

This chapter presents the authors' research that qualitatively examined the perceptions and experiences of infant feeding among working women in urban Malaysia. Exploring qualitatively enabled the researchers to obtain in-depth understanding about their experiences by using multiple methods in data collection including in-depth interviews and written diaries. Diaries were used as a narrative method because it enabled participants to share day-to-day experiences and provide rich information that an interview may miss. By applying feminist concepts, the participants were empowered to express their thoughts freely. The findings suggested that the ability to maintain breastfeeding after returning to work was not necessarily a reflection of good motherhood as perceived by working women in urban Malaysia. The authors suggested that multiple truths existed in working women’s breastfeeding behavior and not all women felt that employment was a barrier. The diary was an avenue for emotional expression. It allowed the women to ventilate what others may not understand or may not even be interested to hear. By presenting their experiences using their own voices through the diary method, the authors hope to promote better understanding about working mothers and breastfeeding in Malaysian society, which may lead to increased support for women to maintain breastfeeding after returning to work.